The suspension, he said, is part of the bureau’s continuing efforts to reform the allegedly graft-ridden agency.

Sevilla added that all those ordered suspended will no longer be allowed to file import entries as they have already lost their privilege to import goods.

He explained that non-disclosure of detailed product descriptions for imported goods is a form of technical smuggling.

“This is all part of the crackdown [on]erring firms,” the Customs chief said.

This is the first time that a big number of accredited importers and brokers was sanctioned for non-compliance with BOC rules and procedures.

Port observers said many of the suspended importers and brokers were used as dummies or fronts by well-known “big time” players cum smugglers in cahoots with allegedly corrupt Customs officials and employees.

Customs sources have identified some of the big players who used dummy companies in smuggling rice, sugar, resin and computers, among other goods and products.Rice and sugar are prohibited importations that are subject to approval from the National Food Authority and Sugar Regulatory Commission, respectively.